WCI extends decline as spot rates weaken

The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) fell 1% to $1,919 per 40ft container on Thursday, 19 February 2026. The index has now declined for six consecutive weeks, pressured by weaker rates on the Transpacific and Asia–Europe trades.

On the Transpacific, spot rates from Shanghai to New York dropped 1% to $2,782 per 40ft container. Rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles held steady at $2,219.

Carriers are actively managing capacity to protect the supply-demand balance. According to Drewry’s Container Capacity Insight, operators have announced 31 blank sailings next week on the Transpacific East and West Coast routes. This level is significantly higher than in previous years. Drewry expects spot rates on this lane to continue softening in the coming weeks.

Rates on the Asia–Europe corridor also moved lower. Shanghai–Rotterdam fell 1% to $2,109 per 40ft container. Shanghai–Genoa declined 2% to $2,895.

Capacity reductions are also visible on this trade. Drewry reports eight blank sailings next week on the Asia–Europe and Mediterranean routes, citing market volatility and ongoing factory closures linked to the Lunar New Year. The consultancy expects a slight further decline in spot rates in the near term.

The sharp fall in container spot rates signals a weaker market than many had anticipated. Expectations had pointed to rising demand and firmer pricing ahead of the Lunar New Year. Instead, rates peaked earlier than usual. If typical seasonal patterns hold, further declines may follow.

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